Make an appropriation to the Department of Tribal Relations to fund the Native American achievement schools grant program.
Impact
The passage of HB 1189 signifies a concerted effort by the South Dakota Legislature to invest in the education of Native American students, recognizing the specific challenges faced in these schools. The bill stipulates that at least 50% of the student population must be Native American, ensuring that the funds directly benefit those most in need. By mandating that participating schools demonstrate a commitment to achieving project goals in compliance with both state and federal regulations, HB 1189 aims to maximize the impact of this financial investment on academic performance.
Summary
House Bill 1189 aims to address educational disparities by allocating $1.5 million to fund the Native American achievement schools grant program. This initiative is designed to support accredited public schools in South Dakota that serve a significant population of Native American students, specifically targeting schools where academic proficiency in core subjects such as English language arts and mathematics falls below the statewide average. The funding is intended to empower these institutions to enhance educational outcomes through various projects and programs tailored to their unique communities.
Contention
While the bill generally enjoys support for its intent to improve educational access and outcomes for Native American students, it might face scrutiny regarding the effective allocation and management of the funds. Critics may raise concerns about the scalability of the initiatives funded by this legislation and whether the grants will lead to sustainable improvements in educational achievement. Moreover, dialogue surrounding the appropriateness of state versus tribal governance in education could emerge, particularly regarding how this funding aligns with broader educational policies in South Dakota.
A bill to ensure progress toward the fulfillment by the Federal Government of its trust and treaty obligations to Native Americans and Tribal governments, and for other purposes.
The skilled workforce student loan repayment and scholarship programs, Native American scholarships, and the North Dakota scholarship; and to provide an appropriation.
Environment and natural resources trust fund appropriations allocated, prior appropriations modified, grant programs established, report required, and money appropriated.
The legacy investment for technology program, the North Dakota development fund, the workforce enhancement council, the administration of uncrewed aircraft system programs, workforce development grants to tribally controlled community colleges, and a North Dakota development fund grant program; to provide a transfer; to provide an exemption; to provide for a report; and to declare an emergency.